Frequently Asked Questions

What is PrEP?

Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is antiretroviral drugs taken daily by HIV negative people most at risk

of HIV infection to reduce their chances of becoming infected. If used consistently, PrEP can reduce the risk of getting HIV from unprotected sex by over 90%. However, because it’s not 100% effective, it should always be used with condoms, safer sex

If you have exposed yourself to HIV, for example by having unprotected sex with someone who is

living with HIV or coming into contact with infected body fluid, taking PrEP correctly can stop the

virus from establishing itself in your body. It reduces risk of HIV infection from unprotected sex and Injecting drug users(IDU)

3.What are the benefits of PrEP?

If used consistently, PrEP can significantly reduce the risk of getting HIV from unprotected sex. It is

more effective when used with condoms, safer sex practices, and other HIV prevention methods.

4.What are the side effects of PrEP?

Some people who take PrEP may experience side effects that last for a short period. These may

include headache, weight loss, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal discomfort and often reduce or

stop after a few weeks of taking the PrEP.

5.How should I take PrEP Pills?

For PrEP to be effective, one needs to take it for at least 7 days before any exposure to HIV. Thereafter, the PrEP pill should be taken once a day for as long as a person remains at risk of HIV infection (or as advised by the Health care provider). You should not take 2 pills at the same time or on the same dayto make up for a missed dose. PrEP best works when used with another prevention method such as condoms

6. Am I protected from HIV if I miss a PrEP pill?

When you miss one or more pills, you are greatly reducing the ability of the PrEP to provide you with

full protection against HIV infection. Evidence has showed that PrEP provides the best protection

from HIV if it is taken consistently every day.

7. Can I share PrEP with others?

PrEP should only be taken by the person prescribed and should not be shared with others. Anyone

who wants to use PrEP should discuss their intention with a health provider?

8.Who can take PrEP?

PrEP isn’t recommended for everyone. If you are HIV negative and at a high risk of HIV

Infection

9.When is PrEP may be an option for you if:

You have a sexual partner who is known HIV positive and either: not on ART, has not been

on ART for 6 months, suspected of poor adherence to ART, or who has not achieved viral

suppression

You have sexual partner(s) of unknown HIV status and are at high-risk for HIV infection

i.e. have multiple sexual partners, has had STIs, engages in transactional sex,

injects drugs

You are engaging in transactional sex (sex in exchange of gifts (e.t.c.)

You have recurrent use of post exposure prophylaxis (PEP)

You are a Sero-discordant couple trying to conceive

You have STI’s frequently

You use condoms inconsistently or don’t use them or you are unable to negotiate condom use

during intercourse with persons of unknown HIV status

It is advisable for you to seek guidance from a health provider for any further clarification.

10.If I take PrEP, can I stop using condoms?

No, you shouldn’t stop using condoms. While it significantly reduces your risk of HIV infection, PrEP

isn’t fully protective and should be combined with other methods like condoms to reduce your risk